Protective covering device and cover assembly

ABSTRACT

A protective covering device having a weather-resistant sheet of material wound about a spring-loaded roller, which material may be extended off the roller and over an object to be covered in a relatively easy manner, and which material may then be spring-assisted back onto the roller during the uncovering of such object. The spring-loaded roller is positioned with a housing that is either anchored to the same surface on which the object to be covered is positioned, or is mountable to a vertically-oriented surface located near one end of the object to be covered. The opposite end of the cover has a four-point multiple curved contour configuration to provide better wrapping both on the storage roller and about the end of a vehicle to be covered. Elastic attachments between the cover and the draw bar serve to draw it over the vehicle and provide convenient and efficient wrapping of the cover about the end of the vehicle.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is related to and takes priority from Provisional Application 60/256,818 filed Dec. 20, 2000.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to protective covering devices generally, and more particularly, to a protective covering device for motor vehicles, and/or similarly shaped objects, exposed to the natural elements or other deleterious environments while parked or at rest temporarily, or for an extended period of time, such device being easy to operate, transport and store.

[0004] 2. Preliminary Discussion

[0005] Protective vehicle covers come in all shapes and sizes. The most permanent type of vehicle cover is the “attached” or “detached” garage constructed in accordance with conventional building codes, which garage is either connected to a residence or situated adjacent thereto, but still within the resident owner's property line. The least permanent type of covering for a large object such as a motor vehicle is usually in the form of a weather-resistant, one-piece cover, which may be either a custom-designed fitted cover or a stock cover. For vehicle owners residing in apartment buildings without attached or detached garages, for example, this is usually the only available option. Obviously, the most expensive and effective type of covering is the garage. However, one-piece fitted covers and the like can also become expensive if they are stolen, which is often a problem today, or if the owner changes cars, thereby necessitating the purchase of a new “fitted” cover.

[0006] Temporary or permanent vehicle covers primarily serve the purpose of providing protection against the natural elements, such as wind, rain and more particularly acid rain, airborne debris, sun, dust, leaves and branches, mischievous youth, bird droppings and other organic matter, and the like. More particularly, temporary covers may be desired by vehicle owners for several reasons. They are particularly appealing in today's upwardly mobile, transient society, since they are easily transportable to any new location. Temporary covers are also desirable away from the home at short term parking locations such as at one's place of employment, or at long term parking locations such as at a self-storage facility or an airport. Temporary covers would also be desirable for new and used car dealers and rental agencies, particularly since vehicle appearance is a driving factor in customer satisfaction and appreciation. Furthermore, the owners of expensive or custom cars frequently wish to protect their car from dust which may settle upon it over a period even within a closed garage or the like.

[0007] Protective covers are, however, only effective if they are easily and conveniently available and hassle-free. For example, storing one's vehicle in an attached garage is essentially effortless, and usually only requires the push of a button on an automatic garage door opener. Storing one's vehicle under a custom-fitted cover, however, can be quite discouraging at times, particularly when the cover is wet and cluttered with debris. One going to work on a dreary, rainy morning, or even during storm conditions, would generally not look forward to removing, cleaning, and storing a custom-fitted car cover that is completely soaked and lined with fallen debris, particularly since one is likely to get wet and dirty in the process, and more particularly if there is no convenient, dry storage location for the now-soaked car cover, which is also now susceptible to mildew damage and the like. In fact, situations such as just described sometimes tend to make temporary vehicle covers a hassle to use and store. 3. Description of Related Art

[0008] Unfortunately, although the objective has always been to provide the user with convenience in protecting his/her vehicle, prior art vehicle covers have been often cumbersome in design and/or tedious and complicated in use. There is a clear evolution within the temporary vehicle cover art, progressing from the simple to the complex. This evolution demonstrates a clear need to reevaluate and reassess the factors that drive the decision to purchase and use temporary vehicle covers. It appears that the prior art has become cluttered with complicated devices that undoubtedly provide protection, but are not convenient and simple to use. The present inventor has previously provided improvements of these prior devices that are easy to use, store, transport and relocate.

[0009] The present inventor has additionally recognized numerous deficiencies within the prior art. First, several of the prior art designs either attach directly to the owner's vehicle or require a structural modification thereof. It is believed that the most useful type of protective device should be the least intrusive to the chassis of the owner's vehicle. Another problem recognized by the present inventor is a lack of weather resistance in prior art framing structures. Many of the recent introductions to the field operate on a sliding track system, where the track itself is exposed to the elements. This presents problems in those areas of the country that experience a lot of storm-related debris or changing of the seasons. Furthermore, the more recent “ribbed” type car covers can be quite bulky at times, particularly when the covering includes series of stiffening members that add weight to the cover, involve additional, often complicated manufacturing steps, and create the potential for breakage, thereby disrupting the entire protective system. The ribbed-type car covers also create a type of fixed geometry, whereby the spatial dimensions of the cover are not easily modified and workable.

[0010] There has been a need, therefore, for a protective covering device that is simple to use, easy to manufacture, effortless in its operation, and easy to handle by all generations. The present inventor has previously created a device that fulfills many such needs. These devices disclosed in the present inventors previously filed applications for patent Ser. No. 09/152,912 filed on Sep. 14, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,276,381, and Ser. No. 09/323,972 filed Jun. 2, 1999, overcome many of the aforementioned problems within the prior art. Such inventions require no modification to one's present vehicle, are freestanding, independent devices, and are capable of dimensional adjustment to accommodate a variety of vehicle shapes and sizes. This is particularly useful should the vehicle owner opt to upgrade his or her present vehicle. The adjustability of these previous covering systems allowed them to cover a new vehicle as easily as the previous vehicle, leaving the previous vehicle in an unaltered state for resale or trade. Such devices were formed of self-contouring, non-ribbed material. Because such covers are formed from a single sheet of flexible material without unwieldy stiffening members, they are able to be withdrawn from the vehicle and stored within a minimum of space. The self contouring cover is also able to accommodate a variety of vehicle shapes, from standard sub-compacts to sport utility vehicles. Furthermore, the lack of stiffening members cuts out needless manufacturing steps for an otherwise simple structure. Simplicity contributes to the commercial viability of any product in the form of decreased manufacturing costs, which are passed along to the customer, and an increase in user satisfaction resulting from ease of use, storage and operation.

[0011] Perhaps the most unique and significant improvement of this invention over the prior art is the storage of the flexible covering on a spring-loaded roller mechanism that is not, in any way, attached to the object to be covered. This mechanism allows the covering to be rapidly applied and rapidly withdrawn with minimal effort on the part of the user. Additionally, the cover, when retracted, is assisted by the spring-loaded mechanism, thereby making the uncovering of the object essentially effortless, while the roller completely eliminates the need for folding and for locating suitable storage.

[0012] In one embodiment, the roller assembly is stored within a ground-based, preferably self-cleaning protective housing that assists in removing debris from the outer surface of the cover and shields the stored cover from the natural elements. In addition, the cover itself is designed to be both gravity retained with respect to covering a vehicle, yet air decelerated when being placed over a vehicle so it does not merely drop over the vehicle onto the ground, but is gently conveyed thereover without the use of either separate or integral spring or other buffer or deceleration devices.

[0013] In another embodiment, the roller assembly is stored within a protective housing that is mountable and adapted for placement against any vertically-oriented surface, such as a wall, door, fence or the like. In such embodiment, the housing might be placed, for example, inside one's garage and against the rear wall for covering and protecting one's vehicle from dust, critters, and other unwanted objects while parked in the garage. The present inventor has realized that indoor pollution, as well as outdoor pollution, can also be a problem, although indoor pollution, typically characterized by gradual accumulations of dust and the like, is usually not as noticeable or prominent as outdoor pollution. The conveniently mountable roller assembly embodiment is portable and easily transportable, and provides the owner with a variety of covering options and locations, which may not always be possible if space is at a premium.

[0014] While the arrangement used previously by the present inventor and disclosed in previous applications filed by the present inventor has worked well, certain difficulties both in rolling the cover up on its spring loaded roller and in efficiently covering the vehicles involved have been encountered. In particular, there have been difficulties with both attaining a tight fit of the outer end of the cover about the front of a car parked in a garage when the storage roller for the cover is mounted upon a garage door plus the outer end of the cover has not rolled up on the storage roller efficiently. The present applicant has now discovered that such difficulties can be avoided by the addition of certain innovations hereinafter set forth. In particular, the present applicant has discovered that the configuration of the end of the cover has a major effect upon both efficiently covering a vehicle and also the efficient storage of the cover on its storage roller and has designed a suitable configuration for these purposes. Secondly, the present applicant has found that in order to attain an effective encapsulation or covering of the end of the vehicle certain elastic properties of the end of the cover must be combined with the spring tension of the roller upon which the cover is mounted for storage and to which the inner end remains attached during use. It has been discovered that very effective resilient characteristics are provided to the end of the cover by the use of an elastic section, preferably formed of so-called bungee cord, to replace a section of the side cords just before attachment to the pull or draw bar, which is used at the end of the cover to draw such cover over the vehicle. In addition, it has been discovered that the efficiency of covering the vehicle is still further increased by the use of an elastic section in the sides of the cover itself near the end overlapping the elastic or bungee cord system. In addition, the specially contoured end section is attached to the pull or draw bar by elastic shock cord, or so-called bungee cord. With these modifications, the efficiency and effectiveness of the cover are increased several fold, so that complete and perfect covering of a vehicle is effected each time with a particularly effective covering of the end of the vehicle discouraging the infiltration of dust and debris under the cover.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A protective covering device comprises primarily a spring-loaded roller around which a weather-resistant, flexible material is wrapped for storage during periods of nonuse. The flexible material is also of a preferably one-piece, durable fabric construction having means to self-contour about the object to be covered. The roller is housed either within a protective enclosure shielding the roller and the flexible covering from the natural elements or may be mounted indoors, for example, in a garage without a protective cover, saving considerably on weight. The flexible covering is extended off the roller and over the object to be covered, with such cover being reeled back onto the roller in a spring-assisted fashion, thereby making the entire covering and uncovering operation essentially effortless.

[0016] In one embodiment, a pivoting arm member anchored to the ground may be implemented to assist in the extension and retraction of the flexible covering about the object to be covered. A further framing piece may also be implemented to further assist in the operation of the flexible covering, and also provide the optimum spacing between the arm member and the storage roller. The framing piece further centers the arm member approximately halfway between the storage roller and the end of the object to be covered, such that the arm member approximates an efficient 180° arc during the covering and uncovering strokes. Simple air buffered deceleration of the cover as it settles over the object to be covered is designed into the apparatus.

[0017] In another embodiment, the roller assembly is stored within a protective housing that is mountable and adapted for placement against any vertically-oriented surface, such as a wall, door, fence or the like. In this embodiment, the housing might be placed, for example, inside one's garage and against the rear wall for covering and protecting one's vehicle from dust, critters, and other unwanted objects while parked in the garage. The present inventor has realized that indoor pollution, as well as outdoor pollution, can also be a problem, although indoor pollution, typically characterized by gradual accumulations of dust and the like, is usually not as noticeable or prominent as outdoor pollution. The mountable roller assembly embodiment is portable and easily transportable, and provides the owner with a variety of covering options and locations, which may not always be possible if space is at a premium.

[0018] A special improvement which allows the cover of the invention to be easily rolled up upon the roller and then unrolled consecutive times consists of a special so-called “four point” cut on the outer end of the cover which cut allows the cover to adapt to the differential linear dimensions of a vehicle. This critical feature enables multiple unrollings and rollings of the cover without tangling even though the sides are usually not as long as the top of the cover. In addition, the cover is provided with a resilient portion of guiding line on either side arranged to pass through nonrestrictive grommets through which the line passes on each side of the cover from the roll and over the vehicle during covering of the vehicle. The cover itself is also preferably provided with a resilient side section insert on each side overlapping the resilient guiding cord. Preferably also the outer end of the cover is attached to the pull or draw bar by elastic ties. In this manner the end of the cover may be guided off the storage roller and stretched down over the front or end of the vehicle after which the draw bar may be moved under the end of the car and seated preferably against the front or end tires or anywhere between the tires and the end of the vehicle as the elastic guiding line and elastic and side section retract the end of the cover securely against the end of the vehicle. The draw bar may also be provided with one of several improved handles to aid placement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the protective housing of the device of the invention with a portion cut away to show the inside.

[0020]FIG. 2 is a cross section of the protective housing of the invention taken through the side of the housing.

[0021]FIG. 2A is a broken apart view of FIG. 2.

[0022]FIG. 3 is a top view of the leading edge of the covering of the invention showing a handle attached thereto.

[0023]FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic top view of one embodiment of the invention showing the device of the invention positioned near an object to be covered.

[0024]FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic side view of an object to be covered with the device of the invention positioned along the side thereon.

[0025]FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic side view of the device of the invention extended partially over the object to be covered.

[0026]FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic side view of the covering of the invention extended substantially over an object.

[0027]FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic side view of the covering of the invention extended completely over an object.

[0028]FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic top view of a preferred embodiment of the device of the invention.

[0029]FIG. 9A is a diagrammatic top view of FIG. 9 having a straddling member for attachment of the device of the invention to a conventional parking-style cement block.

[0030]FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic top view of an alternative embodiment of the device of the invention.

[0031]FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic top view of a further alternative embodiment of the device of the invention FIGS. 12 through 14 show an operation of the device of the present invention, similar to FIGS. 5, 6 and 8, but with the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 9.

[0032]FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic view of ramp-like safety devices incorporated onto the device of the present invention.

[0033]FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic view of one embodiment of the device of the present invention shown in its constituent parts packaged in a kit or the like.

[0034]FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic side view of a mountable embodiment of the device of the present invention shown mounted to a vertically-oriented surface.

[0035]FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the housing of the mountable embodiment with mounting means for mounting of the housing.

[0036]FIG. 18A is an isometric view of an example of a mounting means.

[0037]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of pre-attached mounting means against a wall.

[0038]FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the housing and pull bar of the mountable embodiment of the device of the present invention.

[0039]FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic top view of the roller and flexible covering of the device of the present invention.

[0040]FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic side view of the flexible covering extended over a covered object.

[0041]FIGS. 23 through 26 illustrate operation of the mountable embodiment of the device of the present invention.

[0042]FIG. 27 is a diagrammatic view of one embodiment of the device of the present invention shown in its constituent parts packaged in a kit or the like.

[0043]FIG. 28 is a diagrammatic view of an antenna adapter of the present invention used to reorient the direction of a vehicle's existing antenna.

[0044]FIG. 29 is a diagrammatic side view of a vehicle having an upwardly extending antenna.

[0045]FIG. 30 is a diagrammatic side view of the vehicle of FIG. 28 having an antenna equipped with the antenna adapter of the present invention.

[0046]FIG. 31 is an isometric view of the installation of the spring biased roller of the invention mounted on the lower inside section of a typical garage door.

[0047]FIG. 32 is a plan view of an improved cover assembly in accordance with the invention mounted to a spring biased storage roller.

[0048]FIG. 33 is an enlarged plan view of the outer end of the improved cover shown in FIG. 32.

[0049]FIG. 33A is an enlarged isometric view of one of the grommets on the side of the cover to loosely hold the line along side.

[0050]FIG. 34 is a diagrammatic representation of a preferred mounting for the spring loaded roller of the invention on a garage door.

[0051]FIG. 35 is a side elevation showing a cover equipped with the present inventor's special end contour just after the cover has been stretched out over the vehicle with the draw bar still stretching out the elastic shock cord insert in the guide lines and the elastic insert in the side panels of the cover.

[0052]FIG. 36 is a side elevation similar to FIG. 35 showing the draw bar positioned under the rear of the vehicle and the cover retracted over the rear of the vehicle.

[0053]FIGS. 37 and 38 are detailed views of portions of the draw bar of the invention illustrating the adjustability of a preferred improved grip for grasping and controlling the draw bar.

[0054]FIGS. 39 and 40 are enlarged views of alternative handles appropriate for both right and left handed persons for gripping and controlling the draw bar of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] The protective covering device of the present invention is designed to be portable and adjustable over a variety of object dimensions, and, in one embodiment, freestanding. It is swiftly and easily assembled, easily adjustable and effortless to operate. It should be noted that the protective covering device of the present invention may be used to cover a wide variety of objects, such as cars, motorcycles, bicycles, mini-vans, and the like. It may also be used to cover, for example, a pile of dirt, seat cushions, bricks, a garage sale table, a person reclining on the ground, or anything else imaginable. The preferred type of object is, however, a motor vehicle, and this will be used as the basis for all future examples. The applications for the device of the present invention, however, are in no way limited to the covering of motor vehicles and the like, but motor vehicles, and more specifically cars, will only be discussed for purposes of simplicity.

[0056] The foundation of the protective covering device of the present invention is the spring loaded roller which is mounted into a protective housing. Attached to the roller is preferably a weather-resistant, flexible sheet of material, which is essentially drawn off the roller and over the object to be covered. For purposes of further discussion, the flexible sheet of material will be designated as a “covering.”

[0057] This covering also preferably has the means to be self-contouring, whereby the covering, when extended over the object to be covered, fits nicely or snugly around such object, thereby creating a clean, tight appearance. This self-contouring feature is preferably accomplished by a cord strung through the sides of the covering by way of grommets or the like, which maintains the sides of the covering against the covered object.

[0058] The protective roller housing, when in use, is preferably located parallel to, for example, the front or rear bumper of a vehicle, and is, in one embodiment, anchored to or positioned adjacent the ground using a variety of anchoring hardware depending on the type of surface to which it is mounted, such as, for example, cement nails or ground screws. The housing might also be positioned adjacent a cement-variety or parking space-type block, using a unique frame member that straddles or “hugs” such block, thereby alleviating the need to penetrate the ground and anchor the housing to the ground.

[0059] In one embodiment, a spacing and supporting frame preferably attaches to the roller housing, and preferably comprises a pivoting arm member that assists in the extension of the covering from the roller and over the object to be covered. The arm member also assists in the uncovering of the object and the return of the flexible covering onto the roller. Since the pivoting arm member guides the covering over the vehicle, and since vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, the device of the present invention incorporates an adjustable pivot point, such that the pivot point is preferably positioned at the midpoint of the object to be covered. The spacing and support frame both positions the pivot point of the arm member preferably near the center of the vehicle and supports the arm member alongside the object to be covered. This frame is adjustably positioned with respect to the protective roller housing, while the arm member attaches to the leading edge of the flexible covering.

[0060] A unique feature of the protective covering device of the present invention, which, in one embodiment, i.e. where the covering is supported during drawing over the vehicle by a pivoting arm, distinguishes it from the prior art, is a so-called “parachute” effect, realized by the temporary capture of air underneath the flexible covering as the covering is drawn over the vehicle. This parachute effect cushions the “landing” of the covering's leading edge on the ground at the rear of the vehicle. The leading edge of the flexible covering usually comprises a stiffening member, which allows a user to manipulate or work with the entire leading edge of the covering at the same time.

[0061] This stiffening member also weighs the covering down on the ground, enabling it to remain over the vehicle without any additional tie downs at the rear or front of the vehicle depending upon which end of the vehicle is provided with a nearby spring biased roller support. As the leading edge of the flexible covering is extended over the midspan of the vehicle, which correlates to the highest point of the arc travel of the leading edge, the weight of the stiffening member tends to accelerate the resulting travel of the covering over the vehicle and to the ground. The parachute effect created by the capture of air cushions or air brakes the fall of the leading edge onto the ground, and essentially allows the operator of the device of the invention to let the covering glide to the ground. This parachute effect also prevents the leading edge of the covering, now with additional weight due to the stiffening member, from causing harm to body or personal property.

[0062] The device of the present invention also comprises an optional guidepost-like marker which extends from the top of the roller housing so as to guide the vehicle's owner when parking the vehicle for use of the vehicle cover. The guidepost will allow the driver to line up the center of his/her vehicle with the center of the vehicle cover. Said guidepost will be reflective in nature to facilitate use during night-time hours.

[0063] Another feature of the present invention is an automatic self-contouring tension system. This system is comprised of cords, or the like, and a series of grommets installed in the sides of the cover. As the covering is extended up and over the vehicle, the covering pulls along with it the cords, unspooling them from the roller and automatically increasing the tension as the covering extends farther from the stowed or stored position. The end result is that the cords slide through the grommets in the lower side portion of the covering, providing a downward pulling effect which contours the covering under tension around the sides of the vehicle.

[0064] A most desirable feature of the present invention in one embodiment, as described above, is the adjustability of the ground frame upon initial installation for various sized vehicles. This allows the frame, used in the application of the cover, to slide forward or backward on the ground, thereby enabling the user to locate the frame pivot point at or near the center of the vehicle. This adjustability provides for a tight fit for individual use as well as providing a generic size feature in order for the device to be used with a variety of vehicles.

[0065] In another, more portable embodiment of the present invention, the protective covering device, and more specifically the housing of such device, is mountable to a wall, door or the like, as opposed to being positioned on or adjacent the ground, floor or the like, and is operable without the framing members of the previously described embodiment. A mountable, transportable housing enables the protective covering device of the invention to be used in a variety of locations, without the need for a cleared “footprint” or the positioning of a framing structure. The more portable embodiment also employs a unique covering that is not only self-contouring to encase or enclose the outer surface of an object, but is also length-adjustable to provide a snug fit with a variety of object lengths and widths.

[0066] A further embodiment of the invention is designed to mount upon the lower inside portion of a garage door and serves to protect a vehicle while parked in a garage from the thin layer of dust and grime that normally accumulates on garaged vehicles. A draw bar provided at the front of the cover services to draw the cover over the vehicle to be protected. This new type of assembly normally does not require a protective enclosure for the rolled up or stored cover and this saves weight in shipping the spring loaded roller to customers.

[0067] A very important innovation which is supremely useful and at times critical to operation of the cover device is the discovery that the payout and rewinding of the cover as well as its effective engagement with the front or end of the vehicle is the provision of a so-called four point contour or configuration to the outer end of the cover. Rounded forward extensions are provided one each on the side panels that stretch over the sides of the vehicle and two forward extending portions of the top panel are extended outwardly preferably over the central or middle portion of the end of the main cover portion. Each of these four rounded extensions is attached by a guide and tension line to a forward draw or guide bar which the operator grasps and uses to pull the cover from its storage roller and over the vehicle. A central-tension and guide or draw line is also preferably secured to the front of the cover in the center of the depression between the two central extensions or elongations on the front of the cover. Along with the four-point cut of the front of the cover, it has been discovered that the operation of the covering device is improved very substantially if the front portion of the guide lines are formed from resilient shock cord or the like, frequently referred to as bungee cord or the like from so-called bungee jumping while restrained by such cords. Along with the use of the shock cord, it is very preferable if the lower front portion of the side panels of the cover is formed of a resilient material. With such a construction, when the cover is drawn off the spring tensioned storage roller and over the car, as the cover reaches the limits of its extension, both the shock cord and elastic or resilient material in the side panels of the cover stretch against the spring tension of the storage roller allowing the cover to be drawn down over the end of the vehicle. The draw bar is then brought under the front of the car and held in place, preferably against the tires, by retraction of the shock cord. Meanwhile the resilient cords binding the front of the cover to the draw bar place a continuing tension on one end of the cover holding it in place. The elastic material incorporated into the lower portions of the front of the cover retract the end of the cover snugly against the front of the vehicle. The entire combination of a four point front contour on the cover (which also aids in winding the cover on its spring retracted roller), the elastic shock cord in the ends of the guide lines and the elastic in the side panels near the front of the panel and preferably partially overlapping the shocks cord in the side control line acting in conjunction with the manipulation of the draw bar result in a very controllable covering of the front or end of the vehicle with a superlative fit around such end of the vehicle.

[0068] The following detailed description is of the best mode or modes of the invention presently contemplated. Such description is not intended to be understood in a limiting sense, but to be an example of the invention presented solely for illustration thereof, and by reference to which in connection with the following description and the accompanying drawings one skilled in the art may be advised of the advantages and construction of the invention.

[0069]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a protective housing 300 having a roller 100 with a flexible covering 200 attached thereto, such figure shown with an edge portion of the housing 300 cut out to expose the interior of such housing 300. The protective housing 300 is preferably incorporated to store the roller 100 and covering 200 during periods of nonuse to prevent such roller 100 and covering 200 from being exposed to the natural elements, and is also used to protect the roller 100 and a portion of the covering 200 during periods of actual use. Of course, while the implementation of the protective housing 300 is preferred, it is not crucial to the operation of the device of the present invention, since the roller 100 and material 200 could be supported by other anchoring means and the like. The roller 100 has a center 110 fixed within the housing 300, and preferably between the side walls 330 and 340, shown on edge and partially cut away respectively, of the housing 300, and a radius defined as 120. Attached to the roller 100 is a flexible, preferably weather-resistant, covering 200 having a leading edge 210 and two side edges 220 and 230, with the fourth edge securely attached to the roller and hidden from view. The leading edge 210 also has a protective covering 212 to prevent the leading edge from marring or damaging any surface it might contact, including the ground. This protective covering 212 can be in the form of a cushioning strip spanning between the ends of the leading edge 210, or it can be in the form of separate cushioning segments. The protective housing 300 generally has an upper surface 310 a slanted surface 320 and two sides 330 and 340, two base plates 350 and 360 one front plate 370 and one back face 380. The supporting plates 350 and 360 maintain the protective housing 300 flat, and orifices 362 and 364, for example, provide the means to anchor the housing 300 to a surface using any suitable anchoring means, shown for example, as anchoring member 366. There is also shown in FIG. 1 a brush or cleaning implement 400 attached to plate 320 which will be described in more detail in connection with FIG. 2.

[0070]FIG. 2 is a cross section of the protective housing 300 shown in FIG. 1, taken through the side 340 of the housing 300. An additional feature of the protective housing 300 are drainage holes 390 and 395 for example, positioned about the underside 315 of the housing 300 to allow for drainage of collected water from within the housing onto the ground surface. Directional arrows 130 illustrate the rotation of the roller 100 about its center 110 within the protective housing 300. Fastened within the leading edge 210 of the flexible sheet 200 is a stiffening member 240 which allows for easy grasping and manipulation of the leading edge 210 of the flexible sheet 200 by an operator of the device of the invention. The flexible sheet 200 is also comprised of an inner surface 250 and an outer surface 260, the inner surface 250 coming into contact with the object to be covered and the outer surface 260 being exposed to the natural elements. The outer surface 260 is preferably weather resistant and of a sufficient durability to withstand common elemental debris such as falling twigs, rain, snow, sleet and the like. The roller 100 of the invention is spring loaded shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2 by spring 140, with such spring 140 being a conventional, helical spring, i.e. it only winds in one direction. Consequently, as the covering 200 is drawn out of the protective enclosure 300 by manipulation of the leading edge 210, the roller 100 rotates in the direction of the arrows 130 thereby tightening the spring 140, thereby increasing the tension on the spring 140 as the material 200 is extended off the roll 100. As will be described, and as particularly shown in FIG. 2, a brush 400 engages the outer surface 260 of the flexible sheet 200 as such sheet 200 is withdrawn from and returned to the roll 100 within the protective housing or enclosure 300, and this brush 400 acts to sweep away any debris on the outer surface 260 of the sheet 200 that may have come to rest on the outer surface 260 as such is positioned over the object (not shown) to be covered. While the brush 400 shown in FIG. 2 is of the bristle-variety, any suitable cleaning implement may be used, such as a blade, a piece of stiff material, and extension of the plate 330 or the like. The gap 375 within the protective housing leaves open the possibility for rain and other matter to settle within the floor 305 of the protective housing and the drainage orifices, shown as 390 and 395 for example, act to alleviate any settling of rain or the like on the floor of the protective housing. Access to the inside 308 of the protective housing 300 to remove larger debris can be accomplished through the opening 375, or by having a pivoted or removable front plate 370 a, shown diagrammatically in phantom. Also shown in FIG. 2 is a guidepost-like marker 700 which could extend from the top of the housing 310 so as, for example, to guide the vehicle's owner when parking the vehicle for use of the covering device of the invention. The guidepost 700 will allow the driver to line up the center of his/her vehicle with the center of the housing. Said guidepost 700 should also be reflective to facilitate use during nighttime hours. Such marker 700, which may be fixedly or removably attached to the housing 300, is obviously not necessary for the proper covering operation of the device of the invention, and it merely enhances the use of the device of the invention during normal conditions and conditions of poor visibility. It also assists the operator of the object to be covered to center such object in synch with the center of the housing 300.

[0071]FIG. 2A is a broken apart view of the roller housing 300 shown previously in FIG. 2. The internal frame of the housing 300 is constructed from framing pieces 302. The marker 700 is shown as a distinct unit positioned along the center of the top plate 310 for possible alignment with a hood ornament or the like, however, it could also, if desired, extend along the entire top plate 310 for alignment of the entire front of the vehicle, or it could also be situated along the top plate 310 as several distinct markers 700 for several alignment points. The front plate 370 is shown extended underneath the roller 100 and is pitched downwardly at the lowermost point 372 to further assist in the drainage of water and the like onto the ground. Generally, the entire housing 300 and support or anchoring plates 350 and 360 are transportable as a unit. However, as noted in FIG. 2A, clevis pins 342 located on both side plates 330 and 340 (only 340 being shown) enable the entire housing 300 to be removed from the plates 350 and 360 via orifices 344 located along the support plates 350 and 360. Once the housing 300 is removed from the support plates 360 and 350, the front plate 370 can be removed to access the interior 308 of the housing for removal, replacement and/or cleaning of the roller 100 and the like. In addition, an alternative housing (not shown) having, for example, a roller of covering to accommodate larger-sized objects can be attached to the existing support plates 350 and 360 to create a protective covering device to accommodate shorter or longer objects or the like.

[0072]FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic top view of the leading edge 210 of the covering 200 with the stiffening member 240 shown in phantom. A handle member 400, having a connecting member 410 and a grasping section 420, could be coupled to the leading edge 210 via the stiffening member 240, with the connecting member 410 being short as shown, or somewhat longer designated 400 a in phantom. The operator could manipulate the leading edge 210 of the flexible covering 200 using the handle 400 or 400 a, thereby providing a means to extend the covering 200 over the object to be covered (not shown) and vice versa.

[0073]FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic top view of a more preferred arrangement, further comprising an adjustable arm member 500 pivotable on a plate 600, such pivoting accomplished through a suitable pivot connection known in the art. The adjustable arm member is generally comprised of two sections, a first section 510 connected to the leading edge 210 of the flexible covering 200 and a second section 520 connected to the pivot plate 600. The first section 510 of the arm member 500 is telescopically positioned within the second section 520, although the second section 520, if desired, may be telescopically positioned with the first member 510. The adjustability of the arm member 500 allows for adjusting the distance 605 between the plate 600 and the protective housing 300, thereby enabling the operator to center the pivot point 610 at or near the longitudinal center 905 of the object to be covered 900. To prevent the arm member 500 from going through continuous adjustments as the arm member 500 is used to extend the covering 200 from the housing 300, the pivot point is fixed by securing the plate 600 to the ground via suitable anchoring means through, for example, orifices 662 and 664. Of course, the plate 600 should not be permanently anchored, but merely securely anchored, so that the adjustments can be made as necessary to accommodate objects 900 of different sizes.

[0074]FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic side view of an object to be covered, here a vehicle 900, positioned on a surface S against a parking space block or barrier 990 of the conventional cement variety. The adjustable arm 500 is connected to the leading edge 210 of the flexible covering (not shown), while the plate 600 is positioned and preferably anchored along the side, and at or near the longitudinal center of the vehicle, as previously described in connection with FIG. 4. The end 515 of the arm member 500 that attaches to the leading edge 210 is slanted somewhat so that the majority of the arm member 500 is able to lie flat against the surface S. A handle of the type described in FIG. 3 may be attached to the leading edge as shown in FIG. 3, or a handle 520 as shown in FIG. 5 may extend either from the leading edge (such embodiment not being shown here) or from the slanted section 515 of the arm member 500. Such handle 520 enables an operator to easily extend the flexible covering (not shown here but understood to be contained in the protective housing 300) over the object 900. The handle may also dangle from the arm member 500 when not in use, or may be stored within the arm member in a suitable storage slot or using a suitable storage connection (both not shown) Of course, if the operator (not shown) did not wish to use the handle 520 provided, the operator could also easily manipulate any portion of the arm member 500 to effect the same covering and uncovering operation.

[0075]FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic side view of the arm member 500 positioned directly above the vehicle 900 with the flexible covering 200 partially withdrawn from the housing 300. By grasping the handle 520 and exerting a force 500 on such handle, the operator is able to extend the flexible covering 200 easily from the housing 300 and over the object 900 in a simple arc motion assisted by the pivoting of the arm member 500 on the plate 600. In general, having the arm 500 pivoted on the plate 600 is more effective than merely having a handle attached to the leading edge as shown and described in FIG. 3.

[0076] As now shown in FIG. 7, as the arm 500 is extended clockwise beyond its midpoint, the flexible covering 200 begins to accumulate air, designated by arrows 560, and a resultant air pocket, designated 565 in phantom, along the inner surface 250 of the covering 200. This air 560 and air pocket 565 tends to create a “parachute effect” whereby the flexible covering is ballooned outward in the direction of arrow 570. This parachute effect creates an air resistance to the continued clockwise movement of the arm member 500 and the eventual laying of the flexible covering 200 on the object 900. This parachute feature allows the operator to reduce the force exerted upon the arm member 500 once the arm member 500 has passed the midpoint of its pivoting arc. Past this midpoint, the arm member will essentially complete its arc by the gravitational pull on the arm member 500 and on the stiffening member 240 within the flexible covering leading edge 210, and come to rest on the ground S as shown in FIG. 8. The air pocket 565 and this parachute effect allows the arm member to glide downwardly to the ground, and not slam to the ground with the potential for injury to the operator's body and personal property.

[0077]FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic side view of an object 900 covered with the flexible covering. Grommets 290 may be situated near the side edges 220 and 230 (only 220 being shown here) through which a flexible or elastic-type cord 295 or the like could be strung, such cord 295 extending between the roller 100 and the leading edge 210 of the flexible covering 200. A more preferable system would also include a somewhat non-elastic cord 297, whereby as the arm member 500 is moved up and over the vehicle or object 900, thereby pulling the covering 200 with it, the covering 200 pulls along with it the somewhat non-elastic 297 and elastic 295 cords, unspooling them from the roller 100 and automatically increasing the tension on the elastic cord 295 as the covering 200 extends farther from the stowed position. The end result is that the cords 297 and 295 respectively slide through the grommets 290 in the lower side portion of the covering 200, providing a downward pulling effect which contours the covering 200 under tension around the sides of the vehicle or object. The somewhat non-elastic cord 297 prevents the sides of the covering 200 from bunching up under the increased tension of the elastic cord 295, and maintains the covering 200 firmly against the sides of the vehicle or object 900. Of course, the sides of the covering that would contact the sides of the vehicle or object should be protected such as to not mar or damage the surface of the vehicle or object. During high wind conditions, suitable fastening means 299 may be used to fasten the sides of the flexible covering, through the grommets 290, to the plate 600 or the arm members 500, thereby securing the covering 200 about the object 900. In addition, the outer surface 260 of the covering 200 could be adorned with surface ornamentation 202 of a variety of designs and configurations.

[0078]FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic top view of a preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention. The preferred embodiment includes two arm members 500 and 500 a, each connected at opposite ends 210 and 210 a of the leading edge 210 of the flexible covering 200, and two adjustable spacing or framing members 630 and 630 a. As with the arm members 500 and 500 a, which comprise a pair of telescopically adjustable sections 510, 510 a and 520, 520 a, the spacing members 630 and 630 a also each comprise a pair of telescopically adjustable section 634, 634 a and 638, 638 a as shown. A cross member 620 spans between two anchor plates 600 and 600 a, such cross member 620 being of sufficient durability to withstand the weight of a car, for example, that might drive over it in position to be covered. When the spacing members 630 and 630 a are connected to the housing 300 through chambers 670 and 675 shown in phantom (see also FIG. 1 illustrating chamber 670), and when the plates 600 and 600 a are anchored to the ground, the entire structure becomes very stable. Having a framing or spacing member 630 and 630 a for example, on each side of the housing 300 would allow an operator to manipulate either arm member 500 or 500 a to be able to cover an object from either side of the object. Of course, the stability of the device of the present invention described in connection with FIGS. 4 through 8 could be increased by adding a spacing or framing member as shown in FIG. 10, or even more so by further adding a cross member as shown in FIG. 11, and each of these embodiments would also be sufficiently operable to cover and uncover an object. The embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is preferred to the others from a structural standpoint because the entire assembly is both supported at all corners C1 through C4 by suitable anchoring means on the plates 350 and 360 on the housing 300, and the plates 600 and 600 a between the cross member 620, and is supported by the interconnection of the arm 500, 500 a and spacing 630, 630 a members with the housing 300 and between the cross member 620.

[0079]FIG. 9A is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the framing structure of FIG. 9, having a straddling member 530 designed to fit around, or straddle, a standard parking cement block 990 (shown in previous figures). The space or opening 540 in the straddling member 530 is of a suitable dimension to straddle or hug a standard-shaped parking cement block, which block tends to be of a uniform dimension regardless of its location. In this regard, the framing members 542 and 544 of the straddling member 530 are preferably fixed in place. However, the framing members of the straddling member 530 could also be adjustable to accommodate parking blocks of varying dimensions. The present inventor has surveyed many different locations and has found a standard parking space cement block to be fairly uniformly dimensioned. The straddling member 530 is preferably connected to the framing members 634 and 634 a as shown, either fixedly or through separate fastening means or the like, and makes the previously discussed anchoring means, i.e. plates 350, 360, 600 and 600 a, unnecessary or optional. It would be desirable to have the straddling member 530 be optionally fastenable to the framing structure, so that it may be packaged with the protective covering device as a separate element. When the straddling member 530 is positioned over or around a cement block, the protective covering device of the present invention remains structurally secure against the ground, and movement of the device of the invention in most directions, with the possible exception of directly upward to “unstraddle” the device, is seriously and effectively deterred. This can be highly desirable where the ground surface is not amenable to penetration by anchoring means, or where penetration into the ground is not desired. Penetration is usually highly desirable at time, however, the owner of the property of the region to be penetrated must be willing to consent to such penetration, which is not always granted, allowed or even legal. If the straddling member were attached to the device of the invention, but the device was used in an area with or without a parking block, additional uprights could be attached to the forward edges of the straddling member to assist in the alignment of the vehicle with respect to the straddling member and/or to prevent the vehicle from driving into the roller housing, i.e. to act as a stop for the vehicle. The straddling member does, however, provide the user with greater flexibility regarding a choice of locations for implementing the protective covering device of the present invention.

[0080]FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate the operation of the device of the invention shown in FIG. 9, and are essentially identical to FIGS. 5, 6 and 8, but with the addition of the spacing or framing member 630 (and 630 a, not shown) shown between the plate 600 and the housing 300. The operation of the device of the invention will be explained with reference to the most preferred embodiment described in FIG. 9. In order to operate the device of the invention, the housing 300 should first be positioned and anchored along one end of an object to be covered. Usually, the housing 300 is positioned at the head of a parking space, and if there is a cement block 990 (see, for example, FIG. 5), then beyond such block 990 (refer also to FIG. 9A and the accompanying discussion). The first section of the spacing or frame members 634 and 634 a are then inserted into the chambers 670 and 675 within the housing 300, and such first sections 634 and 634 a are then telescopically inserted into the second sections 638 and 638 a of the spacing or framing members, which second sections 638 and 638 a are already attached to the anchoring plates 600 and 600 a. The arm members 500 and 500 a are also connected to the leading edge 210, and preferably the stiffening member 240, by suitable secure connections, and such arm members 500 and 500 a are also connected to the plates 600, 600 a or the spacing members 630, 630 a. The cross member 620 extends between the two arm members 500 and 500 a, which are all pivotally connected by a suitable pivotable connection to either the plates 600, 600 a or the framing members 630, 630 a. The connection between the cross member 620 and plates 600, 600 a and arm members 500, 500 a can be accomplished in a variety of ways, just as long as the pivot point of the arm members 500, 500 a is at or near the plates 600, 600 a. For example, the arms could actually pivot on the spacing or framing members 630, 630 a as the case may be. The cross member 620 and plates 600, 600 a are then positioned away from the housing 300 at the approximate longitudinal center of the object to be covered. If the object were a car, then the cross member 620 and plates 600, 600 a could initially be positioned at an estimated distance, and then varied once the car is driven over the cross member and parked in position to be covered. Of course, the variation in spacing of the spacing or framing members 630, 630 a results in an equivalent variation in the spacing of the arm members 500, 500 a between the leading edge 210 and the plates 600, 600 a. Once the spacing is determined, the plates 600, 600 a are finally anchored to the ground.

[0081] The operator of the device then, for example, drives his or her (his will be used for convenience hereinafter) car over the cross member and parks, with the center of the car preferably positioned directly over the cross member 620. If the operator is using a marker or guide 700, see FIG. 2, then such operator would also transversely center his car in the parking spot in relation to the housing. The operator then exits from his vehicle and steps over the spacing or framing member 630 and the arm member 500, each of which are positioned along the ground. Due to the potential for trippage at this particular location, a ramp 800 could be placed along the edge of the arm member 500 closest to the object 900 to be covered (see FIG. 15). Similarly, a ramp 810 could also be placed along the edge of the spacing or framing member 630 away from the object 900. The ramp 800 would be useful, for example, when an operator exits his vehicle and must step over the arm and framing members, while the ramp 810 would be useful when the operator is entering his vehicle. In addition, since the framing part of the device of the present invention could pose a potential tripping hazard, the surfaces of the framing members could contain warning indicia 820, such as a bright color, a “CAUTION” sign, striped tape or the like, to alert potential passerbys, particularly when the parking space is vacant, i.e. unoccupied by the object to be covered.

[0082] After the operator exits his vehicle and steps over the frame and arm members, the operator merely grasps the handle attached to the arm members and extends the covering 200 over the vehicle in a swift, arcuate motion (see FIGS. 12 through 14). During the initial stages of the extension of the covering from the housing, see FIGS. 12 and 13, the operator must exert a force to bring the arm member to a position generally perpendicular to the ground, i.e. midpoint along its arcuate path. Once the operator has exceeded this point, the operator merely has to guide the arm member the rest of the way to the ground, see FIG. 14, with the amount of force required being substantially less due to the forces of gravity and the “parachute effect” described in connection with FIG. 7. The parachute effect shown and described in FIG. 7 would also occur with the most preferred embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 9. The leading edge remains at rest on the ground, aided by the additional weight provided by the stiffening member 240, until it is lifted during the uncovering operation. Furthermore, the protective covering 212 around the leading edge (see FIG. 2) prevents the leading edge, weighted down by the stiffening member, from injuring someone positioned in its path, or damaging a vehicle positioned in its path, such as if the owner of the device failed to correctly positioned the pivot point along the longitudinal center of the vehicle resulting in the leading edge contacting the rear of the vehicle instead of the ground. During the covering operation, rotation of the spring-loaded roller increases the tension on the spring within the roller, and the extension of the flexible and rigid cords through the grommets along the sides of the cover contour the sides of the cover to the sides of the vehicle, with the flexible, bungee-type cords also undergoing an increase in tension. The covering operation takes a couple of seconds at the most.

[0083] During the uncovering operation, the leading edge is lifted off the ground and the flexible covering reels back onto the roller under the tension of both the spring inside the roller and the flexible cord extended along the sides of the flexible covering. Consequently, the tension in the spring-loaded roller and the flexible cord make the uncovering operation easier than the covering operation, and the operator merely has to guide the flexible covering back into the housing. As the flexible covering is reeled back onto the roller, the brush 400 removes any debris that has collected on the outer surface of the flexible covering, and covers 325 (see FIG. 1) located on either side of the opening 375 of the housing 300, prevents the flexible covering from bunching up on either end of the roller. The flexible covering is additionally contoured so that the flexible covering is slightly narrower at the leading edge to further prevent such reeling and unreeling operations from creating a bunching situation or effect at either end of the roller 100. The entire uncovering operations also takes a couple of seconds at most, and once the flexible material is reeled back onto the roller, the operator merely has to drive away without worrying about cleaning, folding or storing the cover. Furthermore, the cover is ready to use again immediately after it is rolled up. During rainy conditions, excess rainwater that collects on the outer surface of the covering is either brushed away as the covering is reeled onto the roller, or is captured within the covering on the roller. Water that gathers in the housing is drained through the floor of the housing, and the roller sealed such that water is unable to penetrate the interior of the roller and effect the spring mechanism therein. Furthermore, all rotatable connections inside the housing are preferably rustproof and weather resistant.

[0084] The device of the present invention is designed to accommodate a variety of objects, vehicles and the like. Consequently, the dimensions of the spacing members and arm members should also accommodate a wide variety of covered objects. To accommodate larger vehicles such as vans, trucks and the like, larger spacing members could be used, with, of course, rollers having a longer amount of flexible material stored thereon. The spacing and arm members could also be provided with extension means to extend the length of the original arm and spacing members. Of course, the spacing and arm members do not have to be telescopically adjustable, but can be fixed or adjustable in a different fashion. The rollers could also be removable and interchangeable with rollers having different lengths of flexible material stored thereon to accommodate a wider variety of storage situations. The rollers could also be positioned in succession, for example, along a row or series of parking slots to accommodate a grouping or series of objects. Furthermore, while the aforementioned protective covering device is described as being purely manual in operation, the entire device could be mechanized and made purely automatic, suitable for the elderly and/or physically challenged and the like.

[0085] One of the unique features of the device of the present invention is the creation of the appearance of a rhinoceros, as seen more particularly in FIG. 8. The marker 700 assumes the shape of a rhino horn, the covering 200 over the vehicle creates the appearance of a body, while a dangling handle creates the appearance of a tail. The entire appearance is also streamlined to an extent, which is desirable during windy conditions, and if the situation arises, the sides of the covering may be fastened to the framing structure, with such fasteners being either removable or lockable depending on the nature of the surroundings. The rhino appearance also creates market appeal, and distinguishes the covering device of the present invention from all others that may be said to be rather bland, cold and mechanical in appearance.

[0086] Another desirable feature of the present invention is the ability to anchor the housing and framing structure without penetrating the surface upon which the protective covering device would be situated. As shown and described in FIG. 9A, a straddling member fixed or connected to the frame and designed to straddle or hug a conventional cement parking block maintains the housing and framing structure in a relatively fixed position during operation of the protective covering device. Use of the straddling member would be ideal on paved lots that have cement parking blocks, particularly since it may be undesirable to nail or otherwise secure the protective covering device through the pavement. The straddling member, therefore, makes the protective covering device of the present invention highly environmentally friendly, particularly when it can be applied to a conventionally-sized parking block, since use of the straddling member allows the protective covering device to be used without effecting the surroundings or otherwise leaving a trace on the ground on which the device would be placed.

[0087] Another desirable feature of the present invention is the ability to adjust and readjust pivot point of the arm member(s), and/or the framing member(s), upon initial installation for various sized vehicles. This adjustability, as discussed above, results from the telescoping-type arm and framing members, which slide within each other and are easily assembled and disassembled. In addition, the cross member and support plates are also relatively compact, and since such cross member is about the same length as the protective housing, the entire device of the present invention can easily be packaged in a kit or the like, with written, audio and/or visual instructions packaged therewith. FIG. 16 illustrates one possible embodiment of a kit or package 790 comprising, for example, a housing 300, in which is stored the roller 100 and covering 200 with or without cords 295 and 297, a cross member 620, one or two arm members 500 and/or 500 a, each comprised of a first and second section 510 and/or 510 a and 520 and/or 520 a, one or two spacing or framing members 630 and/or 630 a, each comprised of a first and second section 634 and/or 634 a and 638 and/or 638 a, a straddling member 530, one or two support plates 600 and/or 600 a, a reflective marker 700, fastening members 299, and instructions 795 of the written, audio and/or video variety. For vehicles having fixed, vertical antennas, an adapter 794 may also be included in the package 790, which enables the user to modify the alignment of the existing antenna at an angle so that the antenna does not interfere with the proper operation of the protective covering device of the invention. The compactness of all the constituent elements of the device of the present invention enables one to swiftly install, adjust, re-adjust, and transport the protective covering if necessary.

[0088]FIG. 17 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the protective covering device of the present invention 1000 shown mounted to a vertically-oriented surface, shown for example as a wall W, adjacent the parking locating of a car 900. Unlike the covering device of the previous embodiment and figures, which is essentially ground-based or positioned, the covering device 1000 of FIG. 17 and the figures to follow is mountable to a variety of surfaces. The covering device of the invention 1000 basically comprises a flexible sheet or covering 1200 wound around a spring-assisted roller 1100 (shown in phantom), the roller 1100 secured within a mountable housing 1300 that is mountable to a vertically-oriented surface via mounting means as shown in FIGS. 18 and 18A. The flexible covering 1200 has all of the desirable environmental and durability characteristics as previously described with the covering of the ground-based embodiment, and is preferably long enough to fit most standard vehicles, from motorcycles, which average six to eight feet long, to boats, which average twenty to twenty-eight feet long, or shorter or longer as the need arises. The flexible covering is intended to be offered in many different sizes to accommodate the covering of a variety of objects, and may also be width adjustable to cover objects that are wider than the standard land- or sea- based vehicle. A pull or draw bar 1400 with handle 1450 is used to extend and retract the covering 1200 from the housing 1300, and such pull or draw bar 1400 with handle 1450 is more particularly described in FIG. 20 below. The covering device 1000 of FIG. 17 and the figures to follow operates on the same general principles as the covering device of FIGS. 1 through 16, with the primary difference being the mounting location. The covering device of FIG. 17 and the figures to follow is particularly suited for both indoor and outdoor use, since the housing 1300 can be mounted to both an inside wall surface and an outside wall surface with relatively little effort. As will be understood, the mountable protective covering device of the invention is highly portable and easily manipulatable, and does not use a framing system as shown and described above which might otherwise prevent its use in certain areas or locations.

[0089]FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the mountable housing 1300 shown without the spring assisted roller 1100 or covering 1200 for purposes of illustrating the method of mounting the housing 1300 to a wall surface or the like. The housing has an upper, shelf-like section or surface 1310 and two side sections or plates 1330 and 1340. The upper, shelf-like section or surface 1310 is ideal for the placement and storage of parts, accessories or the like, related to the item being covered, or even just as a storage shelf in general. The rear of the housing 1300 comprises a longitudinal lip section 1315 and two transverse lip sections 1335 and 1345, which sections are slid into pre-attached mounting means 1350, 1362 and 1364 for mounting the housing 1300 to a wall or the like. The mounting means 1350, for example, basically comprises a “Z” shaped bracket, see FIG. 118A, having a mounting section or surface 1352 for mounting the bracket to a vertically-oriented support surface, such as a wall, fence or the like, and support sections or surfaces 1354 and 1356 designed to hold or support the housing 1300, and more specifically the longitudinal section 1315, in position.

[0090] While FIG. 18 illustrates the use of three separate mounting means 1350, 1362 and 1364, each pre-attachable to a wall or the like with attachment means 1370 (nails, screws, bolts or other threaded or non-threaded anchoring or attaching means), see FIG. 19, which is a perspective view of the pre-attached mounting means against a wall W, it will be understood that only certain attachment means may be necessary for a particular mounting surface. For example, it may only be necessary to use the longer attachment means 1350, if such longer attachment means 1350 will be sufficient to retain the housing 1300 of the protective covering device in position, or other attachment means may be necessary to adequately support the housing 1300 against a wall or the like. Of course, the attachment means does not have to take the form of a “Z”-shaped bracket, but could take the form of any means suitable to effect attachment of the housing 1300 to a vertically-oriented surface.

[0091]FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the pull bar 1400, having ends 1410 and 1420 and a handle section 1450, and housing 1300 with roller 1100, but without showing the flexible covering 1200 attached between the roller 1100 and the pull bar 1400. The front of the housing 1300 includes a plurality of removable supports 1320 and 1325 designed to hold the pull bar 1400 when the flexible covering 1200 is wound about the roller 1100 during times of non-use, storage and the like. The supports 1320 and 1325 are removable to optimize shipping conditions, i.e. so the width of the package in which the protective covering device of the invention might be shipped or stored has to be no wider than the housing 1300, and it will be understood that while FIG. 20 illustrates a pair of supports, any number of supports will be operable, including, if desired, only one pull bar support. The supports 1320 and 1325 could also lined with reflective material for guiding vehicles and the like during parking in darkened conditions, or a reflective material that is more extensive could be employed elsewhere on the housing 1300, or near the housing, to assist drivers and the like and to orient a vehicle with respect to the location of the housing 1300. While the pull bar 1400 is shown as a tubular member with an outwardly extending tubular handle section 1450, it will be understood that any relatively stiff means for controlling the leading edge 1210 of the covering 1200 will be operable for extending the covering 1200 out from the housing 1300 and for guiding the same back into the housing 1300 and onto the roller 1100. In other words, while a tubular pull bar is shown, it will be understood that such pull bar could have a cross section other than tubular and the like.

[0092] The details of the roller 1100 and covering 1200 are shown in FIG. 21, which is a top view of an outstretched flexible covering 1200 attached between the roller 1100 and pull bar 1400. The housing 1300 is not shown in FIG. 21. The covering 1200, which comprises a main section 1202 and an attachment section 1204, has a leading edge 1210, side edges 1220 and 1230, and an attachment edge 1240. Two attachment strips 1115 and 1215, one positioned on the roller 1115 and one positioned on the attachment section 1204 of the covering 1200, allow the covering 1200 to be easily removed or detached from the roller 1100 if desired. Of course, if removal of the covering 1200 from the roller 1100 is not desired, the covering 1200 could be sewn or more permanently attached to the roller 1100. However, it would be desirable to have the covering 1200 be removable from the roller 1100 and the housing 1300 should the covering become ripped, torn or otherwise lose its effectiveness, and/or should it be desired to replace just the covering 1200 and not the remaining components of the protective covering device. Conventional hook and loop connecting strips frequently referred to by their Trademark “Velcro” have been found very effective for mounting or attachment of the end of the cover to the roller.

[0093] Two seams 1206 and 1208, shown in phantom, are preferably incorporated into the covering 1200 to extend longitudinally from the attachment section 1204 to the leading edge 1210, which seams are designed to enhance the ability of the covering 1200 to contour around the top and sides of a vehicle when the covering 1200 is extended over a vehicle as shown in later figures. Of course, while the seams 1206 and 1208 may be desirable in certain situations, they may not be desirable in others, particularly where a seam might interfere with the proper covering of an object. Two cords 1250 and 1260 are wound around the roller 1100, passed through grommet-like orifices or rings 1290 in the sides 1220 and 1230 of the covering 1200, and attach to the ends 1410 and 1420 of the pull bar. The cords, which may be of any desired elasticity, attach to the ends of the pull bar and are useful in maintaining the covering 1200 out toward the sides of the vehicle or the object to be covered as the covering is extended over the vehicle or object to be covered, and this is particularly useful for avoiding side view mirrors or the like that might otherwise cause snagging problems when covering and uncovering a vehicle. The cords also assist in the contouring of the covering 1200 around the sides of a vehicle or other object, because as the pull bar 1400 is extended around the end of a vehicle opposite the housing 1300 and roller 1100, as will be shown and described in FIGS. 25 and 26, the positioning of the pull bar 1400 below the end of such vehicle will cause the cords to drag or urge the sides 1220 and 1230 of the covering downward over the sides of the vehicle, see FIG. 22.

[0094] Straps 1270 and 1280, attached to the underside of the covering 1200, have attachment means 1272 and 1282 adapted for attachment to sections 1274 and 1284 on the outside of the covering 1200 respectively, see FIG. 22. While FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate the use of a pair of straps 1270 and 1280, it will be understood that any number of straps will be operable as the case may be, and/or that other fastening means will also be operable, such as Velcro® straps, buckles or the like. As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the leading edge 1210 of the covering 1200 is secured to the pull bar 1400 and held in position by the straps 1270 and 1280. The straps also allow the length of the covering 1200 to be adjusted, since the leading edge 1210 of the covering 1200 could be rolled, for example, only once with such roll then being positioned against the pull bar 1400 before the straps are fastened around the rolled portion of the covering and the pull bar, see FIG. 22, or the leading edge could be rolled many times around itself, decreasing the overall length of the covering before the straps are fastened around the pull bar 1400 and the rolled section of the covering, resulting in a shorter effective covering length, or the covering might not be rolled at all before the straps are fastened around the pull bar 1400, resulting in a longer effective covering length. Of course, while these figures illustrate a covering having an adjustable length, it will be understood that the effective length of the covering could be fixed by securing the leading edge 1210 of the covering 1200 to the pull bar 1400 (see the previous figures of the first embodiment of the protective covering device discussed above). While the leading edge 1210 of the covering 1200 is initially secured to the pull bar 1400 via the straps 1270 and 1280, resulting in a certain covering length at the outset, having the covering be length-adjustable prior to use or after the covering has been applied over an object, is, however, a unique feature to the present invention and not believed to be shown in the prior art covering devices.

[0095]FIGS. 23 through 26, which are all side views, illustrate operation of the protective covering device of FIGS. 17 through 22. FIG. 17 illustrates a vehicle 900 in preparation to be covered, the car 900 positioned on a surface S adjacent the covering device 1000, which covering device 1000 is mounted to a wall W or the like. An operator would grab hold of the handle section 1450 and lift the pull bar 1400 upwards and away from the supports 1320 and 1325. The operator would then walk the pull bar 1400 over the car, which would cause the flexible covering 1200 to be unrolled from the roller 1100 and housing 1300, see FIG. 23. The pull bar 1400 is relatively light, so as to be effectively operated by most people, regardless of their strength, and may be encased in foam or another protective covering if desired, i.e. if the operator is worried about contacting the outer surface of the car and thereby marring the same with the pull bar 1400.

[0096] As the covering 1200 is gradually pulled over the vehicle 900, the seams 1206 and 1208, in conjunction with the cords 1250 and 1260, cause the covering to contour about the upper and side portions of the vehicle, see FIGS. 24 and 25. After the pull bar 1400 and covering 1200 have been extended over the end of the vehicle 900 opposite the housing 1300, see FIG. 25, the pull bar is then lowered and guided rearward, i.e. toward the housing 1300, under the tension of the cords 1250 and 1260 toward the housing, until finally coming to rest against the tires of the vehicle, see FIG. 26. Having the pull bar 1400 rest against the tires of vehicle is beneficial because tires have an inherently durable outer surface and aren't easily marred like the outer surface of a car. Of course, as mentioned above, the pull bar could be padded or otherwise protected just in case the operator of the device should happen to contact the outer surface of the vehicle. To uncover the vehicle, the operator merely has to reverse the covering operation, which is fairly simple and essentially effortless, particularly when the operator has extended the pull bar 1400 past the end of the vehicle opposite the housing 1300. After the pull bar 1400 has extended past the end of the object opposite the housing 1300, the operator merely has to guide the covering 1200 back into the housing 1300 under the spring-assisted tension in the roller 1100. Since the weight of the covering and the pull bar is not substantial, and is in fact relatively light overall, the tension in the spring-assisted roller does not have to be that great to provide the operator with an effortless covering or uncovering operation.

[0097] The mountable embodiment of the protective covering device of the present invention is ideal for operators having relatively limited floor space for placement of the framing embodiment shown and described in the earlier section of this application. The mountable housing can be attached to a wide variety of surfaces, such as the outside of a house, the outside of a garage door, or even the outside of a recreational vehicle. Many people who use their garages for permanent storage while parking their vehicles outside on the driveway, and who rarely open and close their garages, might attach the mountable housing to the outside of the garage door and merely extend the protective covering over their vehicle in a relatively effortless fashion, and the operator merely has to lift the housing off the mounting means and place the housing aside when it is desired to open the garage door. The housing could also be mounted to a pole or a series of uprights if a flat, vertically-oriented surface is unable.

[0098] The housing could also be mounted to the inside of a garage door or to the back wall of a garage, particularly if one wishes to cover one's vehicle or some other object in the garage to protect the same from dust, debris, critters or the like. If mounted to the inside surface of a garage door, the mounting means could be fashioned to support the housing in the vertical and horizonal position, so the housing could travel upward with the garage door and be supported thereon during periods of non-use and the like. Of course, the housing would need to be mounted to the garage door so that it doesn't fall on the user or the user's vehicle when the garage door is in the “up” or open position.

[0099] Another desirable feature of the mountable embodiment of the present invention is its portability and ease of operation. The mountable embodiment is effectively effortless to install, requiring only that it be mounted adjacent an object to be covered. It is also easy to operate, requiring a user to merely extend the pull bar and self-contouring covering over the object to be covered, with a spring-assisted roller to assist in the retraction of the covering back into the housing. In addition, since the entire housing, pull bar and mounting means are also relatively compact, the entire device of the mountable version of the present invention can easily be packaged in a kit or the like, with written, audio and/or visual instructions packaged therewith. FIG. 27 illustrates one possible embodiment of a kit or package 1790 comprising, for example, a housing 1300, in which is stored the roller 1100 and covering 1200 with cords 1250 and 1260, pull bar 1400, pull bar supports 1320 and 1325, mounting means 1350, 1362 and 1364, and instructions 1795 of the written, audio and/or video variety, if desired. For vehicles having fixed, vertical antennas, an adapter 1794 may also be included in the package 1790, which enables the user to modify the alignment of the existing antenna at an angle so that the antenna does not interfere with the proper operation of the protective covering device of the invention.

[0100] The antenna adapter 794 or 1794 and its operation is illustrated in FIGS. 28 through 30. For purposes of explanation, the adapter 1794, designated for use with the latter embodiment of the protective covering device of the invention discussed above, will be illustrated, although it will be understood that such adapter will be operative regardless of which embodiment of the protective covering device is implemented. The adapter 1794 is comprised of a first section 1796, insertable into an antenna receiving orifice located on a vehicle, and a second section 1798 into which is received the antenna 910, see FIGS. 29 and 30, that was originally attached to such vehicle. Normally, the antenna 910 would be fastened to a vehicle via an antenna receiving orifice, such orifice usually being threaded for threaded engagement with the end of the antenna, see FIG. 29. The first and second sections 1796 and 1798 are preferably connected by a ball joint, such that the second section 1798 is rotatable with respect to the first section 1796, which allows the antenna 910, once inserted into the second section 1798, to be rotatable with respect to the first section 1796, and thereby rotatable and movable with respect to the vehicle 900 once the first section 1796 is inserted into the antenna-receiving orifice of the vehicle 900. FIG. 29 illustrates a vehicle 900 without an antenna adapter 1794, where the antenna 910 is merely connected to the vehicle 900 through an antenna receiving orifice. FIG. 30 illustrates a vehicle 900 equipped with an antenna adapter 1794, or 794 from the previous embodiment, which enables the antenna 910 to be reoriented so that the antenna 910 lays substantially parallel to one of the sides of the vehicle and the direction of the antenna no longer interferes with the covering operation. In the alternative, another type of antenna adapter could be used which operates on a spring base, which enables the antenna to flex back and forth under the weight of the covering. Antenna adapters as described above would be useful in older cars having upwardly extending antennas that are not pivotable or rotatable. However, the present inventor has found that most newer vehicles have automatic, telescoping antennas that retract into the car when the radio is turned off and extend outwardly when the radio is turned on, or have antennas that are formed directly into the windshield or the like. Such newer vehicles would probably not need an antenna adapter, since the antenna would never get in the way when the vehicle would be covered. While the present inventor contemplates operation of an antenna adapter with the vehicle owner's existing antenna, a supplemental or replacement antenna may be provided to the vehicle owner for use with either a rotatable or spring-based antenna adapter, or for use without an antenna adapter but with a special fitting attached to such replacement antenna and insertable into the vehicle's antenna-receiving orifice, which would result in a satisfactory operation and flexing orientation of an antenna for such vehicle.

[0101] As indicated above, the present inventor has now also discovered that the operation of the device may be improved very significantly by providing a special extended point, or preferably four point, contour to the end of cover. This has been found to be particularly applicable when the retractable roller for storage of the cover is mounted on the inside of a garage door, but also have applicability with closed weather resistant covers for outside use and the like as described above. In this improved cover arrangement, the cover is provided with four rounded or contoured forward extensions at the outer end. The two outer of these extensions extend essentially over the ends of the side panels of the cover and are connected at their outer ends to the pull or draw bar by resilient or elastic connectors, preferably also made of shock cord, but which could also comprise flexible metal or plastic springs or the like. The two inner rounded or contoured forward extensions are positioned toward the center of the top panel of the cover and are similarly connected by elastic connections to the pull or draw bar. In addition, it is preferred to connect the center of the cover between the two inner contoured extensions to the draw bar by an elastic connection such as shock cord or the like. With this arrangement the end of the cover is very effectively held in place around the end of the vehicle. The provision of only a short length of shock cord at the end of the cover securing together a longer length of regular guide cord and the draw bar has been found to be much superior to use of a resilient shock cord along the entire side of the cover as provided as an alternative in some of the embodiments set forth hereinabove. In fact elastic shock cord used along the entire side of the cover has been found to frequently result in bunching together of the cover when it is attempted to pass it on to the storage roll.

[0102] In FIG. 31, there is shown an open spring loaded storage roller 1500 for the improved cover assembly of the invention mounted on a conventional garage door 1510. The storage roller 1500 is mounted on an adjustable bracket assembly 1512 at two sides of one panel of the articulated door. No cover is shown on the storage roller, although guide cords 1514 are shown wound on the roller at the two ends and a hook and loop securing strip 1516 is shown on the roller. The ends of the guide cords 1514 are shown attached to the ends of a draw bar 1400 with an angled handle 1450. The draw bar is conveniently stored in two hooks or brackets 1522 when the cover is not in use.

[0103]FIG. 32 is a top or plan view of an improved cover assembly 1526 in accordance with the invention. Such assembly comprises a cover designated generally as 1528 comprised of a main or top panel 1528 a and two side panels 1528 b and 1528 c integrally attached on both sides. The side panels 1528 b and 1528 c carry a series of loose or open grommets 1530 along the sides through which pass the two guide cords 1514 a and 1514 b. The rear end of the cover is straight cut and is attached to the roller 1500 by hook and loop strip 1516 engaged with a similar strip on the end of the cover. The cover at its outer end is provided with a particular so-called four point end profile. Such profile includes a rounded or curved extension 1532 at the end of both side panels plus two central rounded or arcuate extensions 1534 in the center. The four extensions are all attached, preferably somewhere near the greatest forward extent of each extension, by elastic lines 1536 to the draw bar 1400. A portion of the side panels preferably along the lower edge has inserted into it a length of elastic material 1538 that substitutes in that area for the regular cover material. In addition, the outer length of the guide lines overlapping with the elastic cover sections is formed of shock cord or other elastic cord 1540. The ends of the cords 1514 a and 1514 b including the outer elastic sections 1540 is attached by hooks 1542 to the draw bar 1518. The hooks are shown temporarily secured toward outer ends of the draw bar to open up the cover as much as possible. These hooks 1542 could also, however, be hooked over the draw bar closer to the center for a narrower vehicle. FIG. 33 is an enlargement of the outer end of the cover as shown in FIG. 32 with the same parts indicated by the same numerals. FIG. 33A is an enlargement of one of the guide cords 1514 passing through an open grommet 1530 as shown in FIG. 32.

[0104]FIG. 34 is a diagrammatic isometric view of the adjustable mounting of the end of the storage roller upon a garage door.

[0105]FIG. 35 is an elevation or side view of a car which has just had a cover assembly 1528 pulled over it by longitudinal tension on the draw bar which was manipulated by the angled handle 1450. The draw bar 1400 is still behind the vehicle and the elastic shock cord sections 1540 and elastic insert 1538 in the side panel 1528 b are still stretched, but urging or pulling the draw bar 1400 forwardly, while the elastic ties 1536 are pulling or urging the end of the cover 1528 rearwardly. The draw bar 1400 is then manually moved downwardly as shown in FIG. 36 and pulled forward by the force of the elastic shock cord 1540. The elastic tie members 1536 pull the end of the cover downwardly toward the draw bar keeping the cover tight upon the vehicle. The elastic section 1538 in the side panel of the cover also pulls the cover tightly about the vehicle. When it is desired to uncover the vehicle the reverse operation is followed in which the draw bar is moved backward against the force of the shock cord sections 1540 but aided by the rearward force of the elastic members 1536 until clear of the rear of the vehicle and the draw bar is then moved forwardly by the force of the elastic shock cords 1540 aided by the force of the winding spring in or associated with the storage roller with the cover feeding over the top and around the storage roller. Feeding over the top of the roller is important, particularly in outdoor or exposed locations as it allows moisture to be expelled from the top of the cover rather than becoming incorporated in the rolled up cover.

[0106] The unique cut or contour at the front of the cover enables the cover to roll up evenly so as to not “drape” all over the roller and on to the floor, etc.

[0107]FIGS. 37 and 38 are views of a portion of the draw bar 1400 showing the angled handle 1450 which in FIG. 37 is pivoted toward the bar for storage or shipping and in FIG. 38 pivoted outward for grasping and manipulation of the draw bar. The handle 1450 can be pivoted to either side to accommodate either right handed or left handed persons. The handle fitting is also preferably movable along the draw bar by sliding to adjust to the preferences of the user.

[0108] Two further possible handles accommodating both right and left handed persons are shown in FIGS. 39 and 40. Such handle is triangular in FIG. 40 and arcuate in FIG. 39. The pivoted handle shown in FIGS. 37 and 38 is the preferred handle arrangement.

[0109] In the invention the adjustable width of the guide cords on the handle make the assembly adjustable for different autos. The elastic portions in the side panels assist with contouring the cover to various sizes of vehicles thus aiding in providing a self-adjusting cover. Rigid cord attached to the shock cord assists the user in securing the cover around the front or back of a vehicle or other object and combined with the retracting springs on the roller, produce a 1-2 second self-adjusting effect whereby the user can drop the handle bar to the ground and allow the action of the roller tension to increase as the handle bar is let go below the center of vehicle or object, enabling the shock cord and elastic sewn into cover to pull the cover tight, automatically contouring the cover to various sized objects. This is a unique benefit of the cover assembly of the present invention.

[0110] While the present invention has been described at some length and with some particularity with respect to the several described embodiments, it is not intended that it should be limited to any such particulars or embodiments or any particular embodiment, but it is to be construed with references to the appended claims so as to provide the broadest possible interpretation of such claims in view of the prior art and, therefore, to effectively encompass the intended scope of the invention. 

I claim:
 1. A sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device, such device comprising a roller within a housing, the flexible material attachable to such roller and further attachable to a handle member for guiding the flexible material off of and onto the roller, for the self-contoured covering of an object resting on a planar surface, such flexible material comprising: (a) a leading edge attachable to a handle member, such leading edge having a central portion and two opposite end portions, (b) an attachment edge attachable to a roller, such attachment edge having a central portion and two opposite ends, (c) a pair of side edges having a longitudinal central portion of the flexible material defined therebetween, (d) a plurality of guide loops located on the side edges for passage of cord means between the roller and the handle member, and (e) means to secure the leading edge of the flexible material to the handle member, and (f) the leading edge of the flexible material having a four-point contoured conformation.
 2. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 1 wherein the leading edge of the flexible cover has two outer contoured forward extensions and two central contoured forward extensions, the outer contoured extensions extending forward a significantly greater degree than the central contoured extensions.
 3. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 2 wherein the rear edge of the flexible cover has an attachment means for securing the flexible material to the roller.
 4. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 3 wherein cord means pass through and are laterally constrained by the guide loops.
 5. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 4 wherein the cord means is less than resilient over its principal length, but resilient over its forward end adjacent to the contoured forward end of the flexible material and attachable to a handle member.
 6. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 5 wherein the sheet of flexible material incorporates an elastic section in the sides of the sheet for better control in covering and uncovering a vehicle.
 7. The sheet of flexible material for use in a protective covering device in accordance with claim 6 wherein the leading end of the flexible material is provided with elastic tie means for attachment to the handle member.
 8. A vehicle cover adapted for reeling off and back onto a reel mounted adjacent to a vehicle comprising: (a) an elongated flexible weather resistant sheet material having a leading end for passage over a vehicle and a terminal end for attachment to a reel, (b) the leading end of the elongated flexible weather resistant sheet having a four point contoured configuration, (c) the terminal end of the sheet material incorporating means for attachment to the reel.
 9. A vehicle cover in accordance with claim 8 incorporating an elastic section adjacent the leading end.
 10. A vehicle cover in accordance with claim 9 wherein the cover is provided with loop-type retaining means along the edges between the terminal end and leading end for containing side control cords.
 11. A vehicle cover in accordance with claim 11 wherein the leading end of the cover is provided with elastic attachment means for attaching the cover to a handle.
 12. A vehicle cover in accordance with claim 8 wherein the four point contoured configuration of the leading end of the cover has two central contoured projections and two side contoured projections and the two side projections are longer than the central projections.
 13. A self-contouring protective covering device for covering an object resting on a planar surface comprising: (a) a spring loaded roller contained within a stationery housing secured to a support, (b) a sheet of flexible, weather resistant material fastened to the roller, the flexible material having a leading edge, two side edges and an inner edge where it is fastened to the roller, (c) the flexible material having edge tensioning cords along the two side edges extending between the roller and the vicinity of the leading edge, (d) handle means positioned adjacent the leading edge of the flexible material and secured to such material, (e) the leading end of the sheet material having a four-point contoured configuration with each of the outwardly contoured portions being attached to the handle.
 14. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 13 wherein the contour of the leading end of the cover includes two inner and two outer contoured extensions, the two outer contoured extensions extending farther forward than the two central extensions.
 15. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 13 wherein the contoured extensions are secured to the handle by elastic securing means.
 16. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 13 wherein the edge tensioning cords are nonresilient over a substantial portion of their length and elastic adjacent to the contoured leading edge and are secured to the handle.
 17. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 16 wherein the edge tensioning cords are slidably secured to the outer edges of the covering device by grommets.
 18. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 17 wherein the grommets extend from the edge of the cover.
 19. A self contouring covering device in accordance with claim 17 wherein the grommets are integral with the plane of the covering device. 